In New York City in 1900, the Knickerbocker Hospital operates with innovative surgeons, nurses and staff who have to overcome medicinal limitations to prevent staggeringly high mortality rates. Dr. John Thackery (partially based on historical figure, William Stewart Halsted), the newly appointed leader of the surgery staff, battles his cocaine and opium addictions with his ambition for medical discovery and reputation among his peers. Dr. Algernon Edwards, a Harvard-educated, European-trained black surgeon (partially based on the historical Marshall Taylor), must fight for respect within the all-white-populated hospital, as well as the racially-charged city. While literally struggling to keep the lights on, the hospital attempts to attract a wealthy clientele, without sacrificing quality care...Info